Porsche 911 review
The long-running Porsche 911 sports car is faster and more comfortable than ever
No other sports car can claim the heritage of the Porsche 911. The rear-engined layout has hardly changed since the car was launched in 1963, but the latest car can rightly claim to be the most technically accomplished in its class. With a greater focus on comfort and refinement, the new Porsche 911 is a better all rounder than ever. Its powerful engine range and better chassis means it’s also faster and safer, too. Greater use of aluminium means the car is now lighter, while the new seven-speed manual gearbox is a world first. Currently just two versions are available, the 350bhp Carrera and 400bhp Carrera S, in two and four-wheel drive, and Coupe and Cabriolet bodystyles, but as time goes on, Turbo and high performance GT versions will be added to the line-up.
Our choice: 911 Carrera S
Styling
With its round headlamps, arcing roof line and compact proportions, the basic shape of the Porsche 911 is familiar, but it has gone through a steady process of evolution. This time around, the most significant alterations include a 100mm longer wheelbase, a wider front track, larger 19-inch wheels, and a 20mm lower roof line. The windscreen is more steeply raked, the fog lamps are integrated into the front bumper and the rear lights are slimmer. Inside, the car’s cabin takes its inspiration from the Porsche Panamera and is both comfortable and well equipped. Standard equipment includes climate control and an advanced satellite navigation system. The low-slung driving position is comfortable, too.
Driving
The Porsche 911 delivers incredible point-to-point performance – it’s one of the fastest cars on the road today. At the core of this is the new engine range, which in 3.8-litre 400bhp Carrera S trim delivers a staggering blend of power and response. However, this car’s advanced chassis control systems also deserve special mention, and give the car incredible mid-corner stability. A change to the 911’s steering set up means the car is much more comfortable on motorways. It's extremely refined, too - when cruising in seventh gear on a smooth surface, you can almost hear the ticking of the dash-mounted stopwatch that's offered as part of the optional Sport Chrono package. The manual gearbox does feel a little clunky at low-speed though and given the choice we would opt for the fast and precise PDK automatic as its quicker than the manual and more relaxing. The four-wheel drive models do command a hefty premium but we'd recommend them for their excellent all-weather ability.
Reliability
Porsche has always taken pride in the build quality of its cars, and the new Porsche 911 is no exception. It’s beautifully constructed, both inside and out, and there’s a robustness to the controls that suggests they will easily last the life of the vehicle. Previous 911s had the potential for serious problems if they weren't looked after properly. An advanced traction control system is fitted as standard, and helps the car remain under control at high speeds. Seven airbags and isofix points for the rear seats are standard too - while the 'Active Stability Management' option features a range of safety and handling upgrades.
Practicality
Thanks to the 100mm-longer wheelbase, the Porsche 911 is roomier inside than ever before. The rear seats offer space for two grown-up kids, while the luggage compartment – located at the front of the car – is big enough to carry the weekly shop. There’s not much stowage space inside the car, but at least the glovebox is a useful size for holding maps or other loose items. Visibility is excellent thanks to the large windows front and rear but handy kit like the a windscreen wiper for the rear window is optional rather than standard.
Running Costs
Both Carrera and Carrera S versions of the new Porsche 911 offer fuel economy of more than 30mpg, and are sure to have strong resale values. Watch out for servicing costs though as any Porsche service centre will be pricey. The hi-tech 911 uses lots of high quality parts and consumables like tyres and brake pads, which can prove expensive to maintain. You can expect routine maintenance costs of around £1,000 per scheduled service. However, unlike most other manufacturers Porsche requires you to get your 911 serviced only every two years. Due to the clever four-wheel-drive system there's not much of a fuel economy penalty by opting for it. Expect to get a few less miles out of a tank of petrol, but you'll barely notice it.
For an alternative review of the latest Porsche 911 Coupe visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk
